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- 12 ounces penne pasta - 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 28 ounces crushed tomatoes - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - Salt and pepper, to taste - 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - 2 tablespoons olive oil

Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta

Discover the comforting flavors of Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta, a perfect dish for family dinners or cozy nights in. This recipe combines tender chicken, fresh basil, and a rich tomato cream sauce over al dente penne pasta. Learn how to create a delicious creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is infused with flavor. Easy to prepare and satisfying, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your household. Try it out for a delightful meal that warms the heart!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (225g) penne pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1 lb/450g), diced into bite-sized pieces

Salt and pepper, to taste

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14 oz/400g) crushed tomatoes

1 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus extra for garnish

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving

Juice of 1/2 lemon

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with water, adding a generous amount of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside, reserving a splash of the pasta cooking water.

    Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer it to a plate to keep warm.

      Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet used for the chicken, add the minced garlic. Sauté over medium heat for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned. This step infuses the oil with garlicky goodness.

        Make the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Allow the sauce to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

          Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with the chopped basil. Stir to evenly combine everything in the creamy sauce, allowing it to simmer for another 2-3 minutes so the flavors can meld beautifully.

            Mix with Pasta: Add the cooked penne pasta directly into the skillet, tossing gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy tomato basil sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Squeeze in the lemon juice for a refreshing touch and mix well.

              Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Top the pasta with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and additional fresh basil for garnish. Serve hot and enjoy!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                  15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings

                    - Presentation Tips: For an elegant touch, serve the pasta in shallow bowls and top each portion with a sprig of fresh basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. A lemon wedge on the side adds a pop of color and an extra zing when desired. Enjoy!